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Boats at Rifle Gap to be checked for invasive mussels

Starting Monday, all trailered watercraft entering Rifle Gap and Harvey Gap state parks will be inspected for aquatic nuisance species, including zebra and quagga mussels.

The inspections are part of the expanded program by Colorado State Parks to combat the spread of these and other exotic species posing a threat to state waters.

“Boats may be inspected at Rifle Gap from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m., seven days per week,” said Aaron Fero, park manager for Rifle Gap and Harvey Gap state parks. “Inspection hours at Harvey Gap will be limited to Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.”

Inspection hours at both parks will decrease later this summer, but inspections still will be available seven days per week.

Visitors launching boats prior to or after inspection hours will be required to have proof of a pre-inspection. The pre-inspection sticker will be available on days prior to boating and will be valid for one entry only.

Parks rangers will be monitoring craft entering and leaving the reservoirs.